Nicholson 55 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design Ethos

Production of the Nicholson 55 commenced in 1971, with notable examples like "EAGER" (originally "LUTINE") launching in 1970 as the first of its kind. The design, attributed to Raymond Wall in collaboration with Camper & Nicholsons, aimed to create a vessel renowned for its reliability and classic aesthetic. During this era, Camper & Nicholsons, a firm whose legacy traces back to 1782, was at the pinnacle of yacht building, known for transforming visionary designs into tangible masterpieces. Their philosophy centered on achieving design and build excellence, ensuring effortless performance, and delivering safe and swift cruising experiences. This ethos is clearly reflected in the Nicholson 55's sturdy construction and graceful lines.

The model saw various iterations throughout its production run, serving both private owners and institutional users. Notably, twelve of these yachts were acquired by the English Ministry of Defence, where they served for many years as sail training vessels. While most hulls were constructed from fiberglass and aluminum composite, a few were also built of aluminum, indicating some customization options and variations within the series.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nicholson 55's design specifications translate into the characteristics of a stable and powerful offshore cruiser. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.10, the yacht offers a balanced performance profile, suggesting capability across a range of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light airs or overpowered in heavy weather. Her substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 47% indicates remarkable stiffness and stability, allowing the vessel to stand up well to strong winds and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. Calculation

Further reinforcing its cruising pedigree, the displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 283 categorizes the Nicholson 55 as a heavy displacement yacht. Calculation This contributes significantly to her renowned seaworthiness and reliability, ensuring a steady and comfortable ride, even in challenging sea states. Owners and reviews consistently highlight the Nicholson 55 as a very seaworthy and reliable vessel. The yacht is reported to handle well, even with a larger crew complement, underscoring its design for practical, long-distance voyaging or training scenarios.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Nicholson 55 is designed for extended living aboard, offering spacious and comfortable accommodations typical of a large cruising yacht from a high-quality builder. While specific headroom details are not consistently available, the overall layout prioritizes functionality and comfort. Many examples, such as the yacht "SURPRISE," feature a charming interior finished in solid teak, reflecting the quality craftsmanship synonymous with Camper & Nicholsons.

A common arrangement provides extensive berthing, with some configurations offering as many as nine berths across three cabins. The forward cabin typically includes two lower berths, providing practical sleeping arrangements. Detailed interior layouts and blueprints available online showcase a thoughtful design that usually includes a well-appointed salon, a functional galley, and adequate head facilities. Storage is generally ample, catering to the needs of offshore cruising. The robust construction and classic interior finish contribute to a timeless appeal, making the Nicholson 55 a comfortable and livable platform for serious cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Nicholson 55 consistently commend its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics. The yacht's reputation for reliability and its comfortable motion in a seaway are frequently praised, reinforcing its suitability as a robust offshore cruiser. The classic design of the Nicholson 55 also garners frequent compliments, with vessels like "SURPRISE" noted for turning heads in every port. While specific common weaknesses or recurring maintenance issues are not widely detailed in available general owner discussions, the longevity of these vessels attests to their inherent quality and the care taken by their owners. Many have undergone significant refits, with examples like "EAGER" receiving modern updates including new carbon rigs and updated layouts, demonstrating the enduring value and adaptability of the Nicholson 55 hull.